Calls to progress Cookstown bypass

Two plus one lane arrangements on the new Magherafelt bypass. Pic of an undated image sent by Dept of Infrastructure in early Oct 2016

Published:09:37Wednesday 12 October 2016

Roads Minister Chris Hazzard is being urged to bring forward plans for a Cookstown bypass, to prioritise the upgrade of the A29 to a Key Transport Corridor and look into a potential bypass for Moneymore.

Speaking in the Assembly, Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend: “I was pleased to get the undivided attention of the Roads Minister to highlight infrastructure needs in Mid Ulster.

“While this week we welcomed the opening of the Magherafelt Bypass, it is important that the current Roads Minister realises the importance of this constituency in terms of economic relevance, and prioritises his budget accordingly.

“I called on the Roads Minister to reprioritise the A29, which is currently deemed a link corridor, into a Key Transport Corridor in his future priorities.

“I would like to see the necessary improvements made to ensure that the road is fit to service the needs of the manufacturing base in Mid Ulster, which is continuously growing and developing, as well as the commuter population.

“A Cookstown bypass was first proposed almost 40 years ago, and, despite a preferred route for the road being announced as far back as 2010, the proposal remains on the shelf.

“I urge the Minister to now revisit the plans, which, again, would cut journey times and bring tangible benefits to local residents, businesses and commuters.”